🔥 Trending Paul Biya: The Long-Serving President of Cameroon

Paul Biya is a Cameroonian politician who has served as the second president of Cameroon since 1982 ¹. He is one of the longest-serving heads of state (excluding monarchs) in the world ⁷.

Early Life and Political Career

Born Paul Barthélemy Biya'a bi Mvondo on February 13, 1933, Biya previously held the position of the fifth prime minister of Cameroon from 1975 to 1982 under President Ahmadou Ahidjo ¹⁴⁷.

Presidency and Long Tenure

Biya assumed the presidency in 1982 and has remained in power since, making him one of the longest-serving leaders globally ¹⁷. His lengthy tenure has led to him being widely considered a dictator by some ¹. In 2025, the 92-year-old Biya was declared the winner of Cameroon's October 12 presidential election ⁷.

Recent Public Appearances and Concerns

In recent times, Biya's public appearances and health have drawn attention. In August 2026, he was noted to have been outside Cameroon for two months, raising concerns about his health ³. He returned to Cameroon on August 20, 2026, after a 74-day absence, appearing on state television upon his arrival at the airport in Yaounde ⁶. At 93 years old, he is recognized as the world's oldest ruler ⁶.